CHARLOTTE, N.C. — The Carolina Panthers signed guard Toniu Fonoti, giving him another chance in the NFL after his weight soared to nearly 400 pounds.

The former second-round pick was out of the league last year after being released by Atlanta before training camp. He played only six games in 2006 and three games a year earlier with Miami, Minnesota and San Diego.

Fonoti, a Kahuku High alum, is listed at 6-foot-4 and 350 pounds. He started 15 games as a rookie with San Diego in 2002. After spending the following season on injured reserve, Fonoti started all 16 games in 2004 for the Chargers. His weight soon ballooned and he has failed to become a full-time starter since.

The Panthers are looking for depth after a series offensive line moves this offseason.